Why the evaluation exists
Bariatric surgery is a powerful tool, but its long-term success depends on lifestyle changes that continue for years. The psychological evaluation helps you and your surgical team understand your strengths, identify any concerns that could get in the way, and put support in place before surgery — not after.
What the evaluation covers
- Your understanding of the procedure and post-surgery lifestyle.
- Motivation and readiness for change.
- Eating patterns, including emotional eating and grazing.
- History of weight loss efforts.
- Mood and mental health history.
- Substance use history.
- Social support — family, partner, friends, workplace.
- Any history of trauma that may affect recovery.
What it is not
- Not a test you can fail.
- Not a judgment on whether you "deserve" surgery.
- Not a psychiatric diagnosis exercise.
Most clients complete the evaluation and are cleared with recommendations for support. In cases where additional preparation is helpful, we work with you and your surgical team to put a short plan in place.
What we look for
- Realistic expectations about surgery, recovery, and weight change.
- Willingness to adopt the required nutritional and lifestyle habits.
- A plan for handling emotional eating and stress without food.
- Stable mental health, or an active care plan for any current concerns.
- Social support that will help you maintain the changes.
What to bring
- Government-issued photo ID.
- Insurance card and any bariatric program paperwork.
- A written list of current medications.
- Contact information for your surgical program.
After the evaluation
We send a written report to your surgical program. If we identify concerns, we typically recommend brief, focused steps — such as a short course of counseling or nutritional coaching — rather than delaying surgery long-term.
Ready to move forward?
Bailey's Assessment & Evaluation Services provides confidential evaluations across North Carolina and South Carolina, by secure telehealth (100% virtual).